Discourse markers

Article excerpt · target grammar marked

The sector divides broadly into three tiers. Discount operators such as Lidl and Aldi have expanded aggressively across Ireland over the past decade, competing primarily on price and supply-chain efficiency. Furthermore, the introduction of banded-hours contracts gave part-time workers greater security. Nevertheless, retail remains a sector where progression requires deliberate effort. Meanwhile, the fastest-growing roles are no longer purely shop-floor positions. Consequently, demand is rising for logistics coordinators and data analysts.

Grammar Reference · Discourse markers

Additive

Furthermore, banded-hours contracts gave part-time workers greater security over their hours. — adds a supporting idea to the previous point

Concessive

Nevertheless, progression to management still requires deliberate effort. — acknowledges a contrast without abandoning the main argument

Result / consequence

Each tier recruits differently; consequently, training approaches vary widely across the sector. — signals a logical outcome

Common error

However it remains positive ✗ → However, it remains positive ✓ — always use a comma after a sentence-level connector

01Exercise 1 — Form · Write the Correct Form

Discourse markers

1.Wages rose in 2024. , many workers also received stronger contract rights.

2.Discount chains dominate on price. , premium stores compete on service and expertise.

3.Consumer spending was strong in 2023. , the retail sector hired more staff.

4.Entry-level roles are widely available. , management positions still demand extra skills.

5.The sector employs 280,000 people — , about 10% of Ireland's total workforce.

6.E-commerce is growing rapidly. , demand for online fulfilment specialists is rising.

02Exercise 2 — Transform

rewrite with the new structure

1.Wages rose. Workers also gained contract protections. (use: Furthermore)

2.The discount tier grew. The premium tier also expanded. (use: Meanwhile)

3.Digital commerce is growing. Demand for data analysts is increasing. (use: As a result)

4.Entry-level pay has improved. Progression still requires effort. (use: Nevertheless)

03Exercise 3 — About You

in your notebook

Personalise: complete five sentences about yourself using the target grammar.

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